Device and method for providing electric service

ABSTRACT

An exemplary device for providing electric service is disclosed. The exemplary device includes a housing, and a meter receptacle having a supply side an a load side. The meter receptacle can connect between a power source at the supply side and a facility at the load side, and can receive an electric load device. A switch connects to the meter receptacle and has a construction power position in which is disconnects the electrical connection between the facility and the power source, and a permanent power position in which it connects the facility and the power source. The device has one or more outlets that can connect to the power source at least when the switch is in the construction power position. The device also has a switch position indicator that can indicate whether the switch is in the construction power position or the permanent power position.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority as a Divisional of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/953,353 filed Sep. 30, 2004, which is aContinuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/861,687,filed on Jun. 4, 2004 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,956,733, which is aContinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/259,296, filed onSep. 30, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,765,787.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general to the field of electric power andmore particularly to a device and method for providing electric service,including both construction power and permanent power.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Construction sites typically require a source of electricity to providepower for various devices and uses such as, for example, electricaltools, lighting, and other equipment that may be used at theconstruction site. During this time, the electricity may be referred toas temporary power or construction power, and such power is generallyprovided at a construction site by way of a temporary connection to anelectrical distribution system or power grid either through an overheador underground connection. Depending on the regulatory rules that are inforce where the construction power is being provided, construction powermay be provided solely as unmetered construction power, solely asmetered construction power, or as either metered or unmeteredconstruction power.

Prior devices and methods have been used to provide construction power.These prior devices and methods suffer from numerous problems anddisadvantages, especially for builders, developers, and contractors. Forexample, temporary power connections and installations at a constructionsite are often labor-intensive, time consuming, difficult to install andsecure, dangerous, and difficult to maintain. Furthermore, the processof requesting a power connection is a time consuming process that maytake an average of 7 to 10 days. Since the timing of power availabilityis uncertain for the builder, the builder is unable to effectively andefficiently plan and utilize resources toward the construction project.

In a typical procedure for obtaining construction power, a builderinstalls a temporary service pole (i.e., a structure having the desiredwiring), and requests the local inspection authority to inspect thepole, the wiring and the installation. If the structure is not approvedby the inspector, then a red tag, indicating a failed inspection, isplaced on the temporary service pole. At that time the builder'selectrician is responsible for fixing the problematic portions of thetemporary service pole. The builder then requests a subsequentinspection by the local inspection authority. If the inspector approvesthe temporary service pole, then a green tag is placed on the structureand an approval form is sent by the inspector to the power company thatindicates that power may now be connected to the temporary service pole.A similar procedure must be followed when obtaining permanent power to afacility after construction is complete.

The numerous and various problems and disadvantages discussed above andsuffered by builders have been exacerbated with the advent ofelectricity deregulation, which has been implemented throughout numerouscountries and in various regions of other countries. Deregulationcomplicates and increases the difficulties of providing constructionpower because, often, numerous additional entities become part of theprocess of setting up, inspecting, approving, and transferring powerfrom construction power to permanent metered power. Further, in regionswhere electricity is deregulated, an electric service delivery pointreference number must be obtained before a meter is ever installed,whether for construction power or permanent power. Depending on theregulatory scheme and regulatory rules, the electric service deliverypoint reference number may be obtained, for example, from an IndependentSystem Operator (“ISO”), a Transmission Distribution Service Provider(“TDSP”), or by contacting a Retail Electric Provider (“REP”).

In Texas, for example, the electric service delivery point referencenumber is referred to as an ESI-ID and can only be established throughthe TDSP contacting the ISO. These ESI-IDs are used by the ISO, known inTexas as the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (“ERCOT”), to clearlyidentify every point of electricity delivery, including temporaryservice or construction service. The electric service delivery pointreference number is important in that it identifies each meter to theISO, the TDSP, and the applicable REP. A temporary ESI-ID must beobtained for a construction power installation for temporary power. Thisfurther prolongs the process because an ESI-ID will also have to beobtained for each facility that is being constructed by the builder atthe construction site.

Upon completion of construction at the site there is a need for a finalinspection by the inspection authority to ensure that every builtstructure meets the local building codes. After this inspection thebuilder has to request permanent power for the structure. This requestinitiates a second setup of an ESI-ID at the residence. This secondESI-ID can often cause confusion for the ISO, the REP, and the TDSPbecause there is nothing that specifically identifies an ESI-ID astemporary or permanent and therefore power activation or termination canbe easily confused. When the inspection approval form is received by theTDSP from the inspection authority and a request has been made for powerat the site, the TDSP schedules the activation of service. The TDSP runspower either overhead or in conduit underground to the permanent meterbase. This process can be riddled with problems because the TDSP needs acleared right of way between the power supply transformer and the meterbase. If this right of way is not cleared then a postponement will occurin the activation of permanent power. Keeping a clear right of way isdifficult during construction because building materials are constantlybeing drop shipped to the site in order to complete the project. And thepower company typically gives a 21 day window in which it will performthe distribution of power to the permanent location.

The request for permanent power is a time consuming process that takesan average of 7 to 10 days if no problems arise, and may range from 3 to30 days in other cases. Since the timing of power availability isuncertain, the builder is unable to effectively perform circuit andsystem tests and complete the finishing work on the building. This isalso a critical time for home builder because the home is essentiallycomplete, but because power has not been established at the property,the property cannot be turned over to the new owners. This causes a lossof interest on the capital investment by the builder.

As is clear, numerous problems and disadvantages exist with currentdevices and methods for establishing and providing construction power ata construction site and then transitioning to providing permanent powerat the constructed facility.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

From the foregoing it may be appreciated that a need has arisen for animproved device and method for providing electric service at aconstruction site that includes both construction power and permanentpower. In accordance with the present invention, an alternative deviceand method are provided to address one or more of the disadvantages andproblems outlined above.

According to one exemplary aspect of the present invention, a device forproviding electric service is provided. The device, which may provideconstruction power during the construction of a facility and permanentpower at the facility thereafter, includes a housing, and a meterreceptacle associated with the housing and having a supply side and aload side. The meter receptacle can electrically connect between a powersource at the supply side and a facility at the load side, and canreceive an electric load device. A switch is contained in the housingand electrically connected to the meter receptacle. The switch has, atthe least, a construction power position in which is disconnects theelectrical connection between the facility and the power source, and apermanent power position in which it electrically connects the facilityand the power source. The device further has one or more outlets thatcan connect to the power source at least when the switch is in theconstruction power position. The device also has a switch positionindicator that can indicate whether the switch is in the constructionpower position or the permanent power position.

According to another exemplary aspect, the present invention provides adevice to provide electric service to a construction site. The devicehas a housing comprising separate first and second compartments, and ameter receptacle associated with the housing and having a supply sideand a load side. The meter receptacle is operable to electricallyconnect between a power source at the supply side and a facility at theload side and to receive an electric load device. A switch is containedwithin the housing and electrically connected to the meter receptacle.The switch can be positioned in at least a construction power positionand a permanent power position. In the construction power position, theswitch being can disconnect the electrical connection between thefacility and the power source. In the permanent power position, theswitch can electrically connect the facility and the power source. Oneor more auxiliary electrical outlets are provided and operable toelectrically connect to the power source at least when the switch is inthe construction power position. One or more auxiliary outlet breakersare provided between the power source and the one or more auxiliaryelectrical outlets. A first cover is adapted to selectively cover thefirst compartment, and a second cover adapted to selectively cover thesecond compartment. The first compartment houses the meter receptacle,and the second compartment houses at least one of the switch and the oneor more auxiliary outlet breakers.

Various embodiments of the present invention may be used to providetechnical advantages that include the capability to significantly reducethe time it takes for builders to construct facilities, including homesand buildings, by providing a device and method that allows forconstruction power and permanent power to be easily and convenientlyprovided.

Other technical advantages may include one of more of the following:

-   -   convenience outlets for a homeowner after construction is        completed;    -   enhanced safety when using temporary power;    -   may remove an average of 10-15 days from the construction        schedule;    -   reduces overall builder costs;    -   eliminates the need for temporary ESI-IDs;    -   reduces the number of calls a builder must make to REP to one to        install permanent power and desired service turn-on date, thus        allowing homes to close faster;    -   provides a convenient disconnect for the fire department in the        case of a fire;    -   instant permanent power after city inspection of the structure;    -   immediate capability for homeowner to move into the structure;        and    -   builders obtain more control of their schedule;

Other technical advantages will be readily apparent to one skilled inthe art from the following figures, description, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and theadvantages thereof, reference is now made to the following drawings anddetailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent likeparts, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary electric servicedevice of the present invention for providing both construction powerand permanent power at a facility during and after construction;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of a front view of an exemplary electric servicedevice of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a right-side view of the electric service device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a left-side view of the electric service device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 a is a front view of another exemplary electric service device ofthe present invention;

FIG. 5 b is a right side view of the exemplary electric service deviceof FIG. 5 a;

FIG. 5 c is a left side view of the exemplary electric service device ofFIG. 5 a;

FIG. 5 d is a front view of another exemplary electric service device ofthe present invention;

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a front view of another exemplary detachableelectric service of the present invention; and

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an exemplary method of the present inventionfor providing construction power during the construction of a facilityand providing permanent power at the facility thereafter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It should be understood at the outset that although an exemplaryimplementation of the present invention is illustrated below, thepresent invention may be implemented using any number of techniques,whether currently known or in existence. The present invention should inno way be limited to the exemplary implementations, drawings, andtechniques illustrated below, including the exemplary design andimplementation illustrated and described herein.

FIG. 1 is a diagram 10 that illustrates an electric service device 14for providing both construction power and permanent power at a facility17 during and after construction. It should be understood that the termconstruction power refers to temporary power or power that is providedwhile a facility 17 is being constructed, and permanent power refers topermanent power that is provided to the facility 17 after constructionis substantially complete. The facility 17 may be any type of commercialor residential building or facility.

The electric service device 14 receives the power from a distributionpower supply 12, such as a standard electric supply provided as ACpower. When providing permanent power, the electric service devicedistributes the power from the distribution power supply 12 to thefacility 17, typically by being connected to a main breaker box 16provided in or near a building, residence, or other facility requiringpermanent power. The electric service device 14 provides temporary orconstruction power through one or more electrical outlets providedwithin or proximal to the electric service device 14. The temporarypower electrical outlets may include, for example, an electrical outlet18, which may be provided as a 120 volt electric outlet, and anelectrical outlet 20, which is shown, for example, providing electricalpower at 240 volts. In an embodiment in which the electric servicedevice 14 is used to provide three phase power, other temporary poweroutlets may be provided to provide three phase temporary power. Othervariations and combinations of temporary power outlets will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings providedherein.

In use, it is anticipated that the electric service device 14 will beused to provide temporary power (either metered or unmetered) toelectrical outlets 18 and 20 (or other outlets) during the constructionof the facility 17 for use by the builder. Then, after the facility 17has been constructed and properly inspected, the electric service device14 will be used to provide metered permanent power for use by the owneror resident of the facility 17. It should be noted that the electricservice device 14 also may continue to provide power to the temporarypower outlets when providing permanent power to the facility 17. Forexample, when the electric service device 14 is configured or set up toprovide permanent power, electrical power may be provided at both theelectrical outlet 18, the electrical outlet 20, and to the facility 17through the main breaker box 16.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the electric service device 14includes a meter receptacle 22, and an electrical outlet 18, which maybe protected by any known circuit protection device, such as aline-current breaker 24 or over-current protection breaker along with aGround Fault Circuit Interrupter (“GFCI”) Breaker. The GFCI Breaker orother protective device may be integrated into the electrical outlet 18or separate from the electrical outlet 18. The electric service device14 also may include the electrical outlet 20, which also may beprotected by any suitable protective device, such as a fuse or breaker.Preferably, electrical outlet 20 is protected by GFCI Breakers 28 toprovide both ground fault current protection and line-currentprotection. The use of breakers and other protective devices provideincreased safety while using any of the electrical outlets of theelectric services device 14. Although the exemplary embodiments of theelectric service device 14 described herein have two electric outlets,it will be readily understood that in various other embodiments theelectric service device 14 may include one or more electrical outlets,and may be constructed to facilitate the addition or removal ofelectrical outlets.

The embodiment of the electric service device 14 shown in FIG. 1 furtherincludes a switch 30. The switch 30 is used to switch the electricservice device 14 between a construction power mode and a permanentpower mode. The switch 30 may comprise any known power switchingmechanism such as a conventional mechanical switch, a relay or otherelectromechanical device or any other arrangement known to one ofordinary skill in the art. In a preferred embodiment, the switch 30 is aconventional breaker, and replaces the main breaker that is normallylocated in the facility's breaker box. The switch may or may not beprovided with some form of overcurrent protection device. For example,in one embodiment the switch 30 may be provided with athermally-activated overcurrent device that opens the switch 30 at acurrent of about 3,000 amps. In a preferred embodiment, the switch 30 isa conventional lever-operated mechanical disconnect switch. In theconstruction power mode, electricity is provided at electrical outlets18 and 20 but not at the main breaker box 16. In the permanent powermode, electricity is provided at the electrical outlet 18, theelectrical outlet 20, and the main breaker box 16. Of course, in otherembodiments the electric service device 14 may stop providing power toelectrical outlets 18 and 20 when it is providing power to the mainbreaker box 16 during the permanent power mode of operation.

While the embodiments described herein generally refer to switchingbetween construction and permanent power modes, in other embodiments ofthe invention, the device may be used to switch between different oradditional modes, all while maintaining the use of a electric servicedelivery point reference number. For example the device may be switchedbetween construction power and multiple different permanent powercircuits.

The distribution power supply 12 may be virtually any known or availableAC distribution power source typically used at residences andbusinesses. The distribution power supply 12 may be provided as a singlephase electric power source or as a three phase electric power sourceand may be provided at any voltage, current or frequency. It should alsobe understood that the distribution power supply 12 may couple to theelectric service device 14 through virtually any known or availablemeans including, for example, underground connections and overheadconnections.

The electric service device 14 may, in one embodiment, be provided in ametal housing that may be conveniently mounted to a pole or otherstructure such that the electric service device 14 may be set up andestablished before the facility 17 being constructed is actuallycompleted or even begun. Any freestanding support may be used to supportthe electric service device 14 while providing construction power, aswill be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Once the facility 17 iscompleted, the housing of the electric service device 14 may then be, inone embodiment, simply removed from the freestanding support andattached to the facility 17. In such an embodiment, it is preferable toensure that the connection between distribution power supply 12 and theelectric service device is provided with enough movement or slack toallow relocation of electric service device. Of course, in otherembodiments, the electric service device 14 may remain at its originallocation after construction of the facility.

The meter receptacle 22 is operable to receive a power meter, such as akwh power meter. The connection of the distribution power supply 12 tothe meter receptacle 22 may be referred to as connected at the supplyside 32 of the meter receptacle 22, and the connection between the mainbreaker box 16 and the meter receptacle 22 may be referred to connectedat the load side 34 of the meter receptacle 22. Thus, the supply side 32is the side where energy or power is provided to the meter receptacle 22and the load side 34 is where energy or power will be provided or usedby the electrical load.

In operation, the electric service device 14 may, in a preferredembodiment, be installed before construction begins or at an early stageof construction of a facility, building, or residence. Once connected tothe distribution power supply 12 and the connection is approved by aninspector, such as a city code inspector, the switch 30 may be placedand locked in an open condition as shown in FIG. 1. This preventselectric energy from being provided to the main breaker box 16. Itshould be noted that the main breaker box 16 will not, generally, beprovided at such an early stage of construction because the facility 17has not yet been constructed and that is where the main breaker box 16will generally eventually reside. In this state, it may be said that theelectric service device 14 is providing temporary or construction powerbecause the only power that may be provided through the electric servicedevice 14 will be that provided through the electrical outlet 18 and theelectrical outlet 20. Assuming that a meter has been previouslyinstalled in the meter receptacle 22, it is clear that the constructionpower consumed through the electrical outlet 18 and the electricaloutlet 20 may be metered and the builder or developer may beappropriately billed.

In some regions where regulatory rules allow, it may be advantageous toprovide or receive unmetered construction power rather than meteredconstruction power. It should be understood that the present inventionmay be conveniently wired for use in either situation by connecting theelectrical outlets 18 and 20 to either the supply side 32 of the meterreceptacle 22 for unmetered power, or the load side 34 of the meterreceptacle 22 for metered power.

Once the facility 17 is constructed and the main breaker box 16 and allnecessary electrical wiring has been provided at the nowfully-constructed facility 17, a city inspector may then switch orunlock the electric service device 14 such that the switch 30 is nowclosed and electric power will be available at the main breaker box 16for use at the facility 17.

It should also be noted that FIG. 1 illustrates an example where thedistribution power supply 12 is provided as a single phase sourcethrough a conductor 36, a neutral 38, and a conductor 40. The conductor36 and the conductor 40 may be referred to as “hot” conductors while theneutral 38 may be grounded. As is illustrated, the electrical outlet 18provides a 120 volt source that it is provided across the conductor 40and the neutral 38. The potential difference between the conductor 36and the neutral 38 is also 120 volts. The potential difference acrossthe conductor 36 and the conductor 40 is provided, in this embodiment,as 240 volts. Thus, the electrical outlet 20 provides a 240 volt supplyand is wired across the conductor 36 and the conductor 40.

It should be understood that the switch 30 may be implemented in anynumber of ways and using any number of mechanisms or devices known toone of ordinary skill in the art. When the switch 30 is provided in a“closed” state, the electric service device 14 is said to be providingpermanent power, which almost certainly will be metered. In this stateor condition, in a preferred embodiment permanent power is available notonly at the main breaker box 16 but also at the electrical outlets 18and 20. This provides the advantage of allowing for convenience outletsto be provided once a facility has been constructed and permanent poweris now being provided.

In a preferred embodiment, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, theswitch 30 is not equipped with a fuse or fuses or overcurrent protectiondevices. However, the switch 30 may, in another embodiment, be providedwith a fuse, an overcurrent breaker or other protective devices. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 2, a fuse 42 may be provided across theconductor 36, and a fuse 44 may be provided across the conductor 40.This may provide additional protection in the event that current surgesare experienced through fuse 42 and/or fuse 44. The switch 30 may beprovided as either a manual switch or as an automated or remotelycontrolled switch, such as a relay or other electromechanical device, asnoted previously herein.

The switch 30 preferably also comprises some type of lockout mechanismthat allows the switch 30 to be locked in an open state, a closed state,or in either state. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the switch30 is provided with a lockable cover that prevents access to the switch.Such a cover may be provided with a device that allows users todetermine the status of the switch (e.g., whether it is in theconstruction power or permanent power position). Examples of such aswitch position indicator include a transparent viewing window 556 (seeFIG. 5 a), a mechanical or electromechanical position indicator (e.g., asolenoid-operated flag), and a light (e.g., a diode or light bulb). Suchdevices are useful to eliminate the need to open the device to determineits status. The lockout mechanism also may be a lockable lever mechanismthat actuates the switch 30. Of course, any other known or availablelockout mechanism may be used, as will be understood by one of ordinaryskill in the art. The lockout mechanism preferably is controlled andlocked by a city inspector or other inspecting authority. However, thelockout mechanism may comprise multiple locks or locking points so thatseveral different entities can place separate locks on the device.Examples of such entities include the electrical contractor installingthe device, the general contractor managing the construction project,the local power providing authority, and the building inspectorresponsible for inspecting the device.

Thus, the electric service device 14 in FIG. 1 allows construction powerto be conveniently provided and metered. Thereafter, permanent power maybe provided to a facility 17 and the electric service device 14 mayoperate in a typical manner and, in one embodiment, still provideconvenience outlets located at the electric service device 14 itself fora building owner or resident. The electric service device 14 in thepresent invention is especially beneficial in a deregulated electricitymarket where it is cumbersome and time consuming to coordinate all ofthe necessary parties to timely provide both metered construction powerand metered permanent power, while also ensuring that the consumptionbetween the two is properly accounted for and billed by the appropriateretail electric provider. It is anticipated that the present inventionwill save an average of anywhere from 10 to 15 days in the completion ofa residential construction project. This translates into large andsubstantial savings for builders and developers.

Other variations on the shown device are contemplated. For example, themeter and meter receptacle 22, outlets and/or other features can belocated in a housing separate from the switch 30. The meter receptacle22 may also be replaced with a receptacle that is adapted to receiveelectric load devices other than a conventional meter, such as a loadlimiting device or a prepaid meter, as are known in the art, or otherdevices or combinations of such devices. It is also anticipated that themeter receptacle 22 can be removed altogether, which may be desirablewhen the power usage for construction or permanent power is known orpredictable without the use of a meter. The meter receptacle 22 may alsobe replaced by a universal receptacle that is adapted to receivemultiple different types of device.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the electric service device 14 thatmay be used in an embodiment of the present invention. The electricservice device 14 in FIG. 2 is similar to that of FIG. 1 except that ahousing 54 is expressly shown (with the front cover removed for clarity)and the arrangement of the electrical outlet 18 and the electricaloutlet 20 are illustrated as being provided on the side of the housing54. The housing 54 may comprise any conventional housing, such as anelectrical housing, and may be equipped with weather insulation,punch-out holes, a lockable cover, mounting brackets and the like. Thehousing may further comprise safety and convenience features, such as acover over the electrical outlets 18 and 20.

A switch arm 52 is shown on the exterior of the housing 54 and coupledto the switch 30 such that the switch 30 may be opened or closed toprovide either construction power or permanent power, respectively. Ofcourse, the meter receptacle 22 will, generally, be provided with ameter during the period in which both construction power and permanentpower is provided through the electric service device 14. It should beunderstood, however, that the present invention is in no way limited inany manner to when a meter is provided at the meter receptacle 22. Forexample, the meter may not be provided in the meter receptacle 22 duringthe period when construction power is being provided, while a meter isprovided at the meter receptacle 22 when permanent power is beingprovided. In various other embodiments, the switch arm 52 may be locatedinside the housing 54 or under a cover (not shown). In theseembodiments, the switch arm 52 (or other suitable actuation device) maybe locked by locking the cover or housing 54.

FIG. 3 is a right-side view of the electric service device 14illustrating the switch arm 52 in a “locked” state using a removablelocking mechanism 62 to provide construction power in accordance with anaspect of the present invention. The removable locking mechanism 62 maybe any of a variety of mechanisms, such as padlocks, sealed locks andthe like. Preferably, the removable mechanism is controlled and providedby an inspector, such as a city code inspector, to lock out the electricservice device 14 either before construction begins or shortly afterconstruction begins at a construction site. After construction iscompleted, the city inspector, after approving the inspection of thefacility 17, may remove the removable locking mechanism 62 and place theswitch arm 52 in the appropriate position to provide permanent power tothe facility 17. In one embodiment, the switch arm 52 also may be lockedin the permanent power position to prevent unintended interruptions ofthe power to the facility 17, however, it also may be desirable to leavethe switch arm 52 unlocked to facilitate quick power disconnection incase of fires or other emergencies.

The switch arm 52 is shown on the exterior of the housing 54 and, in apreferred embodiment, the internal elements of the electric servicedevice 14 will be protected and covered by the housing 54. It will alsobe understood that the switch arm 52 may be inside the housing 54. Themeter receptacle 22 may be visible through the exterior of the housing54, such as through a window to view a meter installed in the meterreceptacle 22.

FIG. 4 is a left-side view of the electric service device 14illustrating the positioning of the electrical outlet 18 and theelectrical outlet 20 on the side of the housing 54 in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention. The electric outlet 18 is shownwith a protection device, such as a GFCI breaker 26, integrated into oneunit. The housing 54 additionally may include any number of cutouts,such as a cutout 72 as illustrated in FIG. 4, to allow for attachment ofconduit, additional outlets, and so on.

Although the electrical outlets 18 and 20 may be provided withoutcovers, in a preferred embodiment the electrical outlets 18 and 20 areprovided with covers, such as spring loaded doors, that protect theoutlets and help prevent accidental electrocution when the outlets arenot in use. In another embodiment, the housing 54 may be provided with acover that covers and protects the electrical outlets 18 and 20 evenwhen they are being used.

FIGS. 5 a, 5 b, and 5 c are front, right-side and left-side views ofanother embodiment of the invention. Although wiring and other internalcomponents are not shown in FIG. 5 a, it is understood that theembodiment of FIG. 5 a is operable to provide similar features andfunctions as the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 1-4.Specifically, the embodiment of FIG. 5 a is operable to provideconstruction power in one mode, and permanent power in another mode.Also, like the embodiments of FIGS. 1-4, the embodiment of FIG. 5 a isoperable, in one embodiment, to provide power to the outlets used forconstruction power even when operating in the permanent power mode.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5 a, the electric service device 514 iscontained within a housing 554 having a meter 523 installed in the meterreceptacle (not visible), preferably such that the meter 523 protrudesoutside the housing 554. Electric service device 514 further comprisesone 240 volt outlet 520, and two 120 volt outlets 518 to whichconstruction power is provided. Power also may be provided to theoutlets 518 and 520 during permanent power operation. The outlets may beprotected by GFCI breakers, fuses, or other protective devices, asdescribed elsewhere herein. In order to facilitate access to theprotective devices and the wiring to the outlets 520 and 518, thehousing 554 preferably comprises a first access door 502.

The electric service device 514 may be operated in construction powermode or permanent power mode, as described in more detail elsewhereherein. A switch 558, such as switch 30 described elsewhere herein orany other power switching device, may be used to change the operationmode of the electric service device 514. In a preferred embodiment, theswitch 558 of electric service device 514 is contained within thehousing 554. The housing 554 preferably is provided with a second accessdoor 504 to access the switch and the associated electrical connections.In this case, the switch and associated electrical connections may becontained in a compartment that is separate from the rest of the wiringto prevent access thereto without going through the second access door504. The second access door 504 (or some other part of the housing) maybe provided with a window 556 through which switch 558 can be seen todetermine its position.

The housing 554 may be further provided with a third access door 506 toprovide access to the permanent power wiring that connects the meterreceptacle of the electric service device 514 to the facility (notshown). Such wiring may include a terminal block that is connecteddirectly to the home's circuit breaker panel board, and another terminalblock that is used for bonding and grounding the device. The firstaccess door 502 may also be eliminated and housing 554 may be arrangedsuch that the breakers for the auxiliary outlets (outlets 518 and 520)are also housed behind the third access door 506 in a compartment thatis separate from the rest of the wiring. The provision of this separatecompartment provides a convenient access point for electricians to workon the device without having unnecessary access to the reminder of thedevice.

The electric service device 514 may be equipped with a number ofutility-enhancing features. For example, one or more of the first accessdoor 502, second access door 504 and third access door 506 may beprovided with a lock or lockable mechanism. The selection and use ofsuch locks and lockable mechanisms will be understood by one of ordinaryskill in the art. The electric service device 514 also may be equippedwith other convenience features, such as mounting brackets 510, weatherinsulation (not shown), knock-out openings 512, and the like.

FIG. 5 d is a front view of a variation of the embodiment of FIGS. 5a-c. In this embodiment, the electric service device 514 is containedwithin a housing 554 having a meter 523 installed in the meterreceptacle (not visible). This embodiment also has one 240 volt outlet520, and two 120 volt outlets 518 to which construction power isprovided, and has a switch 558 that is housed under a switch cover 504.Switch 558 is visible through a window 556 in the switch cover 504.

A distribution power supply source (not shown) is connected to thedevice 514 by way of neutral and conductor wires (shown bundled assupply wire set 562) that pass through a conduit 576 in the bottom ofthe device. The supply wire set 562 electrically connects to a supplyside of the receptacle for meter 523. Neutral and conductor lines exitthe load side of the meter receptacle and are connected to a mainbreaker switch 558 by a main power wire set 564, and to an auxiliarycircuit breaker 570 by an auxiliary power wire set 566. The main breakerswitch 558, which preferably replaces the main breaker switch in thefacility's breaker box, is connected to the facility (not shown) by awire set 568, which exit the device 514 through the conduit 576 or bysome other route. The auxiliary circuit breaker 570 is connected toauxiliary outlets 518 and 520 by appropriate wire sets 572.Electrically, it will be seen that this configuration is essentially thesame as FIG. 1, in which metered power is always provided to auxiliaryoutlets 518 and 520 (when a meter is installed), but is only provided tothe facility when the main breaker switch 558 is in the on position.

The electric service device 514 of FIG. 5 d is provided with two housingcovers, in addition to the main breaker switch access cover 504. Thefirst housing cover 560 covers the meter receptacle and its associatedwiring. The second housing cover 574 covers the auxiliary circuitbreaker 570, and may also house a terminal block (not shown) locatedintermediate the main breaker switch 558 and the facility. The firsthousing cover 560, second housing cover 574, and breaker switch accessdoor 504 preferably are lockable separately from one another. The entirefront of the housing 554 (or at least the portions where covers 504, 560and 574 are located) may also be hinged to allow access to the entireinterior without opening the separate covers 504, 560, 574.

The housing 554 is further provided with partitions (not shown)separating the electrical components behind each of the covers 504, 560and 574. As such, the device 514 is divided into three sections. Thefirst section is a utility compartment A, to which the utility companymay be given access to install, remove or service the meter 523 and itsassociated wiring by way of cover 560. The second section is a localinspection compartment B, to which the inspector responsible forconnecting the facility when it goes into permanent power mode is givenaccess by way of access door 504. The final section is an electriciancompartment C, to which electricians servicing the facility or theauxiliary outlets 518 and 520 are given access for routine inspectionsand repair. By limiting access to particular compartments, each entityis prevented from inadvertently contacting wiring that is not associatedwith that entity's function. Of course a single entity may be givenaccess to more than one compartment, and access may be given to theentire device when performing the initial approval for its use, duringemergencies or for other reasons.

FIG. 6 is a front view of another embodiment of the invention comprisinga detachable electric service device 100. The detachable electricservice device 100 includes a permanent unit 82 and one or moredetachable units 84. As is illustrated, the detachable unit 84 mates orcouples with the permanent unit 82 so that construction power may beprovided through one or more electrical outlets 20 in the detachableunit 84. Any suitable outlet or outlets may be incorporated into thedetachable unit 84. The exemplary detachable unit 84 is illustrated inFIG. 6 to include an electrical outlet 20 and GFCI Breaker 28 similar tothose previously illustrated in connection with FIGS. 1-4.

The permanent unit 82 may, in one embodiment, be provided in a housing,similar to the housing 54 described previously in connection with FIGS.2-4. As with the embodiment described in connection with FIGS. 2-4, thepermanent unit 82 preferably may be mounted to the facility or residencethat is being constructed and, once construction is completed, remain toserve as the meter box to provide metered permanent power at thefacility. The permanent unit 82 also may be attached to a pole or otherdevice during construction then later be moved to the facility, or maybe left on the pole during permanent service.

The detachable unit 84 may, in one embodiment, be provided in one ormore housings, such as a housing 86, and may be made of virtually anyknown or available material, such as a composite or metal material. Inorder to provide electricity to the detachable unit 84, The detachableunit 84 is provided with a detachable unit connector 88 that is adaptedto couple with a similar permanent unit connector 90 in the permanentunit 82. The outlet 20 or outlets of the detachable unit 84 areelectrically coupled to a detachable unit connector 88. The detachableunit connector 88 and permanent unit connector may comprise any suitableelectrical interface, such as plugs or other electrical contacts, aswill be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

In order to improve safety and prevent unauthorized tapping of powerfrom the permanent unit connector 90 when the detachable unit 84 is notin use, the permanent unit connector 90 may be equipped with a mechanismthat disconnects the permanent unit connector 90 from the distributionpower supply 12 until the proper detachable unit 84 is installed.Preferably, this may be accomplished by providing the detachable unit 84with a power activation mechanism 89 comprising a prong-like structurethat engages with the permanent unit connector 90 to initiate the supplyof power to the permanent unit connector 90. The power activationmechanism 89 may, for example, activate a spring-loaded switch (notshown) located within or near the permanent unit connector 90 thatcloses a set of electrical contacts between the permanent unit connector90 and the distribution power supply 12. The power activation mechanism89 also may simply press directly against spring-like electricalcontacts to connect the permanent unit connector 90 to the distributionpower supply 12. When the detachable unit 84 is removed, the poweractivation mechanism 89 pulls back and the spring loaded switch orcontact returns to its original position, thereby interrupting the powerconnection to the permanent unit connector 90.

The detachable unit 84 may be used to provide temporary or constructionpower during the construction of a facility 17. The detachable unit 84may then be moved or utilized at another construction site to alsoprovide construction power by coupling with another permanent unit. Thisprovides the advantage of reducing overall costs by minimizing thenumber of detachable units while reducing the overall costs of thepermanent unit 82 and still providing many of the potential advantagesof the present invention.

The permanent unit 82 comprises a means for receiving electrical power.In a preferred embodiment, the means for receiving electrical power isan opening 94 at the meter receptacle 22. The opening 94 preferablycomprises a knock-out that may be removed to allow various differentsizes of cable and/or conduit to be inserted in or attached to thepermanent unit 82. The permanent unit connector 90 then couples with theconductor 36, the neutral 38, and the conductor 40 to provide anelectrical connection to the detachable unit 84. The permanent unit 82further includes a mechanism 92, such as the switch 30 of FIGS. 1-2. Themechanism 92 is operable to open and close the electrical connectionbetween the main breaker box 16 and the load side 34 of the meterreceptacle 22, and may be configured to operate in the manner describedherein with reference to the switch 30. For example, the mechanism maybe operated by a conventional lever-type switch located outside orwithin the housing 54 of the permanent unit 82. The mechanism 92 may becoupled with the main breaker box 16 of the constructed facility 17through an opening 96 in the housing 54, such as the opening 94described above, or by any other suitable means for receiving electricpower lines, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

The mechanism 92 is shown in FIG. 6 being coupled with the permanentunit connector 90 to illustrate the fact that in one embodiment theoperation of the mechanism 92 may be dependent upon whether or not thedetachable unit 84 is connected with the permanent unit 82. As notedbefore, in operation, the detachable unit 84 may be coupled with thepermanent unit 82 through the detachable unit connector 88 and thepermanent unit connector 90. This provides an electrical connection fromthe outlet 20 to the load side 34 of the meter receptacle 22. Theinterface between the detachable unit 84 and the permanent unit 82 mayalso be equipped with a mechanical, electrical, or other connection,such as the power activation mechanism 89 described herein, that opensthe mechanism 92 when the detachable unit 84 is installed to interruptpower to the main breaker box 16. Such a mechanism would be useful toensure that permanent power is not transmitted to the main breaker box16 until the detachable unit 84 is removed. However, in a preferredembodiment, the supply of power to the breaker box 16 is unaffected bywhether the detachable unit 84 is installed in the permanent unit 82 ornot.

Once construction is complete and the constructed facility 17 has beenapproved, the detachable unit 84 may be removed while the permanent unit82 may remain at the facility 17 and serve as a permanent meteringfacility. Once the detachable unit 84 is removed, the permanent unit 92and facility 17 preferably are inspected to ensure compliance withapplicable electrical codes and the mechanism 92 is then placed in aclosed or unlocked state such that the main breaker box 16 iselectrically connected to the load side of the meter receptacle 22.Thus, permanent power may be provided to the facility 17 and meteredthrough a meter provided at the meter receptacle 22.

It should be understood that the mechanism 92 may be provided as aswitch, a relay or electromechanical device, a mechanical connection, orany other arrangement known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Instill other embodiments, the mechanism 92 may be controlled by manual orremote operation, as described herein with reference to switch 30, ormay be controlled through the permanent unit connector 90.

In other embodiments, the detachable unit connector 88 and the permanentunit connector 90 may be provided such that they can be lockinglyengaged so that the detachable unit 84 may not be removed from thepermanent unit 82. In other embodiments not expressly illustrated inFIG. 6, any of a number of lockout devices may be provided to ensurethat the detachable unit 84 stays coupled with the permanent unit 82.For example, the interfacing surfaces of the detachable unit housing 86and the permanent unit housing 54 may be provided with interlockingdevices that may be locked using a padlock or other known lockingdevice.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart that illustrates a method 120 for providingconstruction power during the construction of a facility and providingpermanent power at the facility thereafter, according to one embodimentof the present invention. The method 120 begins at start block 122 andproceeds to block 124. At block 124, a device is installed at aconstruction site that, when energized, provides construction powerthrough an electrical outlet at the device during construction of thefacility and then is used to provide metered permanent power at thefacility thereafter. For example, the electric service device 14 or thedetachable electric service device 100, as described in the previousFIGURES, may be installed before or at the beginning of the constructionof a facility. In a preferred embodiment, a Retail Electric Provider(“REP”) may be selected before the device is installed.

In some regions, such as in regions where electricity is deregulated, anelectric service delivery point reference number may be obtained beforea meter is ever installed in the device that is referenced at block 124.Depending on the regulatory scheme and regulatory rules, the electricservice delivery point reference number may be obtained from anIndependent System Operator (“ISO”), a Transmission Distribution ServiceProvider (“TDSP”), or by contacting a Retail Electric Provider (“REP”).In Texas, for example, the electric service delivery point referencenumber is referred to as an ESI-ID and can only be established throughthe TDSP contacting the ISO. These ESI-IDs are used by the ISO, which isthe Electric Reliability Council of Texas (“ERCOT”) in Texas, to clearlyidentify every point of electricity delivery, including temporaryservice or construction service. The electric service delivery pointreference number is important in that it identifies each meter to theISO, the TDSP, and the applicable REP.

The method 120 proceeds next to block 126 where an inspection is doneand an approved inspection is obtained. The inspection may generally beperformed by a code inspector, such as a city inspector or regionalinspector, to ensure that the device is properly installed. Proceedingnext to block 128, the device, such as the electric service device 14 orthe detachable electric service device 100, may be locked to providemetered construction power when the device is electrically energized. Ina preferred embodiment, the inspector that performed the inspection inblock 126 provides the locking mechanism and controls the locking of thedevice. Preferably, the device will not be unlocked until constructionof the facility is completed and the facility passes another inspectionto ensure that it meets the appropriate electrical code or other code,and that it is safe to transfer power to the facility.

The method 120 proceeds next to step 130 where a meter is installed inthe device to measure energy consumption. This energy consumptionpreferably is measured whether it is provided through the electricaloutlets at the device to provide metered construction power or, afterthe facility is constructed and inspected, to provide metered permanentpower. However, in regions that allow unmetered use of constructionpower, the meter may be replaced by jumpers or the device may be wiredto provide electricity to the construction power outlets without goingthrough a meter. In another embodiment, the electric service deliverypoint reference number will be received before the meter is installed inthe device.

Proceeding next to block 132, the device is electrically energized toprovide metered construction power at the construction site. In aderegulated environment, the previously selected REP will be theprovider of the energy, and in a regulated environment, the incumbentutility will provide the energy.

The method 120 proceeds next to steps 134 and 136 where the facility hasbeen substantially constructed and completed and inspection approval ofthe facility is obtained. In a preferred embodiment, the inspector thatperforms this inspection may then remove the lockout device or use someother means to place the device in a connected state to provide meteredpermanent electric service. At or before this point, the owner orresident of the facility may select a second or a different REP than theone that was used to provide the metered construction power during theconstruction of the facility. This may be achieved by contacting thedesired REP to transfer electric service into the appropriate accountname. As such, the electric service device of the present invention maybe used to provide both metered construction power and metered permanentpower. If the detachable electric service device 100 is used, thedetachable unit may be detached from the device as part of the unlockingof the device to provide metered permanent power in block 136. Themethod 120 ends at block 138.

As an example, and without limitation to the present invention, thefollowing provides an example of the steps that may be taken to providemetered construction power and metered permanent power according to anaspect of the present invention:

-   -   1. Builder's Electrician Sets Electric Service Device of the        present invention (hereinafter “Device”);    -   2. Builder Calls REP to request connection and turn on date;    -   3. REP requests ESI-ID from TDSP for Device;    -   4. TDSP sends ESI-ID back to REP;    -   5. REP sends message to ERCOT that they are the energy supplier        for that ESI-ID;    -   6. ERCOT approves service start;    -   7. Builder requests city inspection;    -   8. City schedules site inspection;    -   9. If Device passes city inspection then the city inspector        “locks out” the safety switch in the off position (the device        may also be provided pre-locked);    -   10. If Device passes city inspection a fax is sent to TDSP        noting approval;    -   11. City inspection approval initiates the meter to be set at        the Device by the TDSP;    -   12. TDSP rolls truck to set meter;    -   13. Builder constructs the facility;    -   14. Builder requests city inspection for final building        inspection;    -   15. City schedules site inspection;    -   16. If the structure passes city inspection, the city removes        lock out of the Device;    -   17. Builder repositions switch arm to the on position to        energize home and transfer to permanent power;    -   18. Builder closes on house;    -   19. Homeowner calls REP to transfer power into homeowner's name;    -   20. REP contacts TDSP to obtain a final meter reading; and    -   21. REP transfers power from builder account to homeowner's        account.

These steps just listed significantly reduce the complexity and timingof scheduling and having electric power provided as construction powerand then as permanent power. In particular, the use of the presentdevice allows power to be switched from construction power to permanentpower without having to call in the utility company to set up a secondmeter for the completed facility, which can be time consuming and addadditional expense. The present device and method also requires only oneinspection by the controlling authority, which is the city in thisexample. Furthermore, while conventional temporary power boxes are usedmany times, the present device is used only once, and thus there islittle need to inspect for worn parts and less likelihood of a failedinspection. In contrast, previously known devices required at least twoinspections: a first inspection to approve the supply of constructionpower, and a second inspection to approve the supply of permanent power.By eliminating the need for a second inspection step (although such astep may still be performed in some embodiments, such as when mandatedby the local regulatory authorities), the present invention provides anadvantage of reducing the construction time of the facility, which leadsto numerous other benefits such as those that have been describedelsewhere herein. The present invention also requires only one multipleelectric service delivery point reference number (ESI-Id) to be assignedto each facility location, reducing the likelihood of inadvertent powerinterruptions and other problems attendant to requiring the constructionpower unit to have one ESI-ID and the permanent power unit to haveanother ESI-ID. It is also believed that the reduced complexity providedby using the present invention will encourage owners of facilities builtwith the present device to continue to use the same REP that the builderused even after construction is complete, providing an advantage to REPsthat encourage builders to use the present invention because those REPswill enjoy continued income from the facility owner or user.

As is illustrated, the device and method of the present invention mayprovide significant advantages to overcome the difficulties andcomplexities of providing both temporary or construction power and thenpermanent power when a facility is constructed. Although the preferredembodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood thatvarious changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made hereinwithout departing from the scope of the present invention, even if allof the advantages identified above are not present. For example, thevarious elements or components of the present invention may besupplemented, combined or integrated with another system or certainfeatures may not be implemented. Also, the components, techniques,systems, sub-systems, and methods described and illustrated in thepreferred embodiment as discrete or separate may be combined orintegrated with other components, systems, modules, techniques, ormethods without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thepresent invention may be implemented to function using virtually anyavailable electricity regulatory setup, including both regulated andderegulated electricity markets. Other examples of changes,substitutions, and alterations are readily ascertainable by one skilledin the art and could be made without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present invention.

1. A device to provide electric service to a construction site, thedevice comprising: a housing; a meter receptacle associated with thehousing and having a supply side and a load side, the meter receptacleoperable to electrically connect between a power source at the supplyside and a facility at the load side, the meter receptacle operable toreceive an electric load device; a switch, contained within the housingand electrically connected to the meter receptacle, the switch beingoperable to position in at least a construction power position and apermanent power position, the switch being operable to disconnect theelectrical connection between the facility and the power source while inthe construction power position, and the switch being operable toelectrically connect the facility and the power source while in thepermanent power position; one or more electrical outlets operable toelectrically connect to the power source at least when the switch is inthe construction power position; and a switch position indicator adaptedto indicate whether the switch is in the construction power position orthe permanent power position.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein theelectric load device comprises one or more of a meter, a prepaid meterand a load limiting device.
 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the switchposition indicator comprises a transparent window through the housing,an mechanical indicator, an electromechanical indicator or a light. 4.The device of claim 1, wherein one or more of the meter receptacle, oneor more outlets, and switch position indicator is located remotely fromthe housing.
 5. A device to provide electric service to a constructionsite, the device comprising: a housing comprising separate first andsecond compartments; a meter receptacle associated with the housing andhaving a supply side and a load side, the meter receptacle operable toelectrically connect between a power source at the supply side and afacility at the load side, the meter receptacle operable to receive anelectric load device; a switch, contained within the housing andelectrically connected to the meter receptacle, the switch beingoperable to position in at least a construction power position and apermanent power position, the switch being operable to disconnect theelectrical connection between the facility and the power source while inthe construction power position, and the switch being operable toelectrically connect the facility and the power source while in thepermanent power position; one or more auxiliary electrical outletsoperable to electrically connect to the power source at least when theswitch is in the construction power position; one or more auxiliaryoutlet breakers positioned electrically between the power source and theone or more auxiliary electrical outlets; a first cover adapted toselectively cover the first compartment; a second cover adapted toselectively cover the second compartment; and wherein the firstcompartment houses the meter receptacle, and the second compartmenthouses at least one of the switch and the one or more auxiliary outletbreakers.
 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the first cover and thesecond cover are lockable separate from one another.
 7. The device ofclaim 5, wherein the housing further comprises a separate thirdcompartment, and wherein the second compartment houses the switch, andthe third compartment houses the one or more auxiliary outlet breakers.8. The device of claim 7, further comprising a third cover adapted toselectively cover the third compartment.
 9. The device of claim 8,wherein the first cover, the second cover and the third cover arelockable separate from one another.